=======================================================
VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 is one of Westport’s underappreciated, often-overlooked gems.
In addition to providing a home and community for veterans, the building at the Saugatuck Avenue/Riverside Avenue merge offers a restaurant and bar — and a state Veteran’s Service Office, assisting with disability support.
Thanks to 4th Row Films — Westporter Doug Tirola’s great documentary film company — you can learn all about the 100-year-od Westport VFW post, from members themselves. Click the link below; the password is “4throw” (without the quotation marks).
=======================================================
Weather postponed 2 Remarkable Theater showings last week. So get ready this week for …
“Finding Nemo” (tonight, Monday, June 7) and “Rocky Horror Picture Show” (Saturday, June 12). Gates open at 7:30 p.m.; the “curtain” goes up at 8:30.
Click here for tickets and more information. Enjoy the show!
======================================================
A reader writes:
“We are a family of 4, with 3 dogs. When one was hit by a car, we wanted to find another. We ended up at Puppies of Westport (although we said we wouldn’t ever go to a ‘puppy mill’). Lauren Meren, the owner, was very kind. We had health issues with our dog, and she immediately reimbursed us for the hospital stay.
“y vet told me that Lauren recently died. Her children are trying to find homes for all of the dogs in the store. Please highlight this story, so the dogs end up in a loving home instead of a fate much different.”
There has been no answer to phone calls. If “06880” readers have any idea of the fate of the dogs — or how to help — click “Comments” below.
Puppies of Westport –
======================================================
For years, an unattractive concrete tower marred the playground and baseball field behind the Learning Community Day School (formerly Hillspoint Elementary).
Before …
Now — thanks to art teacher Lauren Beusse, her colleagues and (especially) the talented kids, it’s been transformed beautifully.
Lauren was inspired by Tyree Guyton, a Detroit artist who creates large installations out of dilapidated properties and recycled materials.
Children worked on 6 individual panels, exploring colors and adding their own touches. LCDS says: “the flowers reaching for the sun, and birds and insects flying above, will always remind us of the way young children grow, bloom and take flight during their time here.”
… and after.
======================================================
Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo from Lou Weinberg. In addition to overseeing our fantastic Community Garden next to Long Lots Elementary School, he’s a brilliant nature photographer.
Lou says: “The cedar waxwings are tossing them back at the old serviceberry tree. Robins are getting their fill as well. Serviceberry trees are native, and have very high wildlife value.
(Photo/Lou Weinberg)
======================================================
Voices Café — the Unitarian Church’s music series — premieres its livestream season on June 19 (8 p.m.). Featured performers are Goodnight Moonshine with Molly Venter (of Red Molly), and Eben Pariser, who also performs with Roosevelt Dime.
For nearly a decade, Voices Café has supported social justice programs. Recognizing the historical significance of this year’s concert date — Juneteenth — proceeds from the performance will benefit the Mary and Eliza Freeman Center for History and Community in Bridgeport. Click here for tickets, and more information.
=======================================================
And finally … in the hopes of finding homes for all the Puppies of Westport (see story above) …
https://vimeo.com/fourthrowfilms/review/559173229/e9a3ef9587
The “Puppies of Westport” store (which has since moved to Norwalk, across from the Monroe service center, and just before the Bender plumbing supply,) has had a “Going Out of Business” sign in the windows for about a week.
I would suggest anyone with concerns go to the storefront to inquire, as it looked like they were busy and things were clearing out fast.
What happens to all the puppies?
Just stopped by Westport Puppies. There are only 5 sweet pups left. So hurry down! Of not al gone by Sunday they have homes for them, they said.
Most of the puppies are gone/have been sold. Hurry if you want one there are 5 left
Thanks to 4th Row Films and Doug Tirola, a great documentary filmmaker for the interesting video about the VFW Post 399 in Westport and the local veterans. Good Going to all. Cheers.
As of today, 4 puppies are left. Lauren will be missed. I have two dogs from Lauren and Monty – 12 and 13 years old in perfect health!
Great video about the VFW. My grandparents, Stew and Luda Hemson, brought me there for lunch all the time when I was younger. My grandfather was poppy chairman for many years and was a regular at the VFW until his death in 1993. It has always been a wonderful place and I’m so glad to see it still going and getting some advertising!